Violin Varnish and How to Make It/Chapter 6

by Georges Foucher

CHAPTER VI.

Colouring Matter.

THERE are two important qualities which the matter used in colouring must possess.

These are durability and solubility. The necessity of durability is obvious, and solubility is essential in order that the varnish may retain its full transparency.

Colouring matter that is not completely dissolved merely renders the varnish a mixture that has neither transparency nor beauty.

Many of the gums and rosins used give a certain amount of colour to its solvent, hence care must be taken not to add to a varnish a colour that does not naturally match with the original appearance, except in such cases where it is desired to obtain a special hue.

It is advisable to dissolve each colouring substance in advance in as strong a solution as possible, and add it to the vehicle you wish to use in such quantities as are required.

The following colouring matters can be used separately to give a plain colour, or mixed to suit individual tastes:—

For yellow colour, use—

Saffron.

Cur'cuma.

Quercitron.

Fustic wood,

etc., etc.

For red colour, use—

Dragon's blood.

Carthamine.

Alazarius garancine,

etc., etc.

For red brown, use—

Cochineal.

Sandal wood,

etc. etc.